1. Hōʻikeʻike
CF3 stainless steel, a member of the austenitic cast stainless steel family, is the low-carbon cast equivalent of the popular wrought grade 304L (Loaʻa iā mākou S30403).
It is defined under ASTM A351 and widely used in industries where corrosion resistance, wawahua, and castability are paramount.
'Ōlelo “C” in CF3 stands for “Corrosion-resistant”, “F” denotes the steel grade (304L equivalent), and the number “3” identifies its low carbon content (≤ 0.03%).
Kahiki, CF3 emerged as part of the response to corrosion issues in chloride-rich and welding-intensive applications.
The introduction of low-carbon grades in the mid-20th century was a milestone that enabled the development of high-integrity welded structures without the need for post-weld heat treatment.
Due to its balanced combination of cost-effectiveness, Hana, and resistance to sensitization,
CF3 continues to be strategically important in cast stainless steel applications across chemical, petrochemimical, Ke hana kino wai, and food-processing sectors.
2. Kinohi & Metralurgy
ʻO keʻano koho
The typical weight percentage (Wt.%) of the alloying elements in CF3 stainless steel, as defined by ASTM A351, oe:
| Mua | Kaonaʻeha (Wt.%) | Hana |
|---|---|---|
| Chromium (Cr) | 18.0 - 21.0% | Promotes corrosion resistance through passive film formation |
| Nickel (I) | 8.0 - 11.0% | Hoʻopaʻaʻia, improves ductility and toughness |
| KālekaʻAʻI (C) | ≤ 0.03% | Reduces sensitization; improves weldability |
| Mang kāne (Mn) | ≤ 1.5% | Enhances hot workability; deoxidizer |
| Silikino (A) | ≤ 2.0% | E hoʻolaha i ka limu i ka lawaiʻaʻana; deoxidizer |
| Phoshorus (P) | ≤ 0.04% | Residual; must be minimized to reduce brittleness |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.04% | Residual; excessive S can reduce toughness |
| 'Eron (Lia) | Kaulike | Matrix element |
'Ōlelo NA LAPORL THELELY KOMIA (≤ 0.03%) significantly mitigates the risk of chromium carbide precipitation at grain boundaries during welding,
making CF3 especially resistant to intergranular corrosion without requiring post-weld heat treatment.
Moloka: Austetetic matrix & Carbide Control
CF3 stainless steel has a fully austenitic microstructure with a face-centered cubic (Fcc) lattice, which contributes to:
- Excellent toughness at both ambient and cryogenic temperatures.
- Non-magnetic behavior in the annealed state.
- Resistance to stress corrosion cracking (SCC) in many chloride-containing environments.
Due to its low carbon content, CF3 contains minimal chromium carbides, particularly at grain boundaries.
This improves resistance to sensitization, a condition in which chromium-depleted zones form and become vulnerable to corrosive attack.
Some residual delta ferrite (maki < 10%) may be present after solidification, particularly in sand-cast components.
which helps prevent hot cracking during solidification, but has minimal impact on corrosion resistance or toughness when kept at controlled levels.
3. ASTM A351 CF3 and Global Equivalents
| Kū-starder | Keiawai | Kahuna | Equivalent Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Astm A351 | Grade CF3 | USA | Low-carbon cast 304L |
| ASME SA-351 | Grade CF3 | USA (boiler code) | Pressure vessel compliant |
| I 10283 | Gx2crni19-11 | European Union | Ho? Ole o 1.4306 (304L) |
| ISO 11972 | G-X2CrNi19-11 | Anterhi | Global harmonized equivalent |
| He g5121 | SCS13A | Iapana | 304L cast grade |
4. Nā Pīkuhi Propertinies
| Waiwai waiwai | Waiwai maʻamau |
|---|---|
| Ikaika ikaika | ≥485 mpa |
| Ka ikaika (0.2% Kahiki) | ≥205 mpa |
| Ewangantion | ≥30% |
| Hālulu | 140-190 hb |
| Hopena paʻakikī (Lumi Paʻa) | > 100 J (Charpy V-Notch) |
| Fatigue Endurance Limit | 240-270 mpa (in air, Polu) |
| Pale pale | Moderate up to 870°C |
I nā mahana kiʻekiʻe, tensile and yield strengths decrease gradually, but the alloy retains sufficient structural integrity up to 400–500 °C, making it viable for moderate thermal service.
5. Thermal & Nā Pūnaewele Pūnaewele
| Waiwai | Waiwai |
|---|---|
| Huakai | ~ 7.9 g / cm³ |
| Ka HōʻaʻO Kokua | ~ 16 w / m · k (at 100°C) |
| Coefficient of Expansion | 17.3 μM / m · m · ° C (20–400°C) |
| ʻO keʻano o ka uila | 0.72 μ · · m |
| Pane magnetic | Non-magnetic (Anned) |
| ʻO ka pale oxidation | Good up to ~800°C |
6. Casting Characteristics of CF3 Stainless Steel
CF3 stainless steel—cast equivalent of 316—brings molybdenum‑enhanced corrosion resistance into complex geometries.
To harness its full potential, foundries must account for its unique casting behavior, from melt handling to solidification control.
Kaulikeia & Ka nininiʻana
CF3 melts between 1450 ° C a 1550 ° C, slightly higher than CF8 due to its Mo content.
At a pouring superheat of 1500–1560 °C, CF3 achieves a fluidity of 220–280 mm (ISO 243), enabling fill of thin‑walled sections down to 4 mm.
Akā naʻe,, excessive superheat can increase gas pickup a me ka oxidation, so operators typically limit superheat to 50 ° C above liquidus.
Solidification Range & Shrinkage
Me a kūʻoleʻina o ka aneane 60–90 °C, CF3 solidifies over a broader temperature interval than simple austenitic alloys.
NOEHUI, it exhibits Linear shrinkage no 1.9–2.3 %, necessitating careful shrink‑compensation in pattern design.
E pale kikowaena kīʻole, engineers employ kuhikuhi i ka hōʻoia: placing insulated risers above hot spots and using lihuli to accelerate freezing in thick sections.
Feeding & Riser Design
Given its moderate shrinkage, CF3 castings benefit from risers sized to feed 30-40 % of the casting mass they support.
Finite‑element thermal simulation often guides riser placement, ensuring uninterrupted metal flow into contracting zones.
Kahi mea hou aʻe, ʻO nā pale exothermic on critical risers prolong feeding life without increasing overall mold volume.
Keila, Deoxidation & Inoculation
To minimize gas porosity, foundries typically argon‑purge the molten CF3 before pouring.
They also add Silikino (0.3-0.6 %) and aluminum (0.02–0.05 %) deoxidizers, which form stable oxides and reduce dissolved oxygen.
Hope loa, a small rare‑earth inoculant (E.g., 0.03–0.05 % Fe‑Ce) promotes fine, uniform δ‑ferrite and prevents microshrinkage, enhancing mechanical consistency.
Suitable Casting Methods for CF3 Stainless Steel
| Ke Kūleʻa Kūlana | Nā noi maʻamau | Loaʻa | Mau olelo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sand cread (Green or No-Bake) | Nā kino valve, Nā Hale Hōʻikeʻike, flanges | – Cost-effective for large parts – Flexible for varied designs |
– Rougher surface finish (Ra 6–12 μm) – Tighter control needed for porosity |
| Nā pāpale pīpī pale | Instrumentation covers, small valves | – Good dimensional accuracy (±0.3%) – Fine surface finish (Ra 3–6 μm) |
– More expensive molds – Best for small to medium-sized parts |
| Hoʻolei kālā (Makemake Wax) | Hanakai, medical fittings, ʻO nā'āpana kiʻekiʻe | – Excellent surface finish (Ra < 3 μm) – High geometric complexity |
– Higher cost – Limited to small–medium parts |
| ʻO Centricugual kāhea | Bussings, apo, pipe sections | – High density – Low porosity – Good mechanical properties in radial direction |
– Suitable only for rotationally symmetric parts |
| Hoolei Momi | Critical components in aerospace, nuclear applications | – Reduced oxidation – Cleaner microstructure |
– Expensive – Requires specialized equipment |
| Cemic mold canding | Complex heat-resistant parts | – Excellent surface detail – Good dimensional precision |
– Longer mold preparation time – Higher cost |
Heat Treatment Practices
Ma hope o ka hoʻoleiʻana, CF3 typically undergoes Hoʻoholo hōʻoluʻolu I ka nui o 1040-1120 ° C (1900–2050°F) followed by rapid water quenching. This process serves several purposes:
- Dissolves residual carbides, restoring corrosion resistance
- Homogenizes the microstructure, eliminating segregation from solidification
- Improves ductility and toughness by removing delta ferrite or brittle phases
Strict temperature control during annealing is critical. Insufficient quenching rates can result in hōʻikeʻike and chromium depletion I nā palena nui, compromising corrosion resistance.
7. Ke kū'ē neiʻo Corrosionion
Genenation Corrison
In neutral and mildly acidic environments, CF3 maintains excellent resistance due to its chromium-rich passive film. Corrosion rates are typically < 0.05 mm/year in potable water and wastewater systems.
Localized Corrosion Resistance
The alloy shows good performance in environments containing chlorides up to ~200 ppm:
- ʻO ka heluʻana i keʻano kūlike (Wood): ~ 18
- Critical Pitting Temperature (CPT): ~ 20-25 ° C (varies with chloride level)
ʻO ka hakakāʻana o ke kaumaha (SCC)
CF3’s low carbon content improves SCC resistance in chloride-bearing environments, particularly in the 50–100°C range, a known danger zone for austenitic grades.
8. Huahuai & Markinpalibility
CNC Mīkini
CF3 machines comparably to wrought 304, with a machinability index of ~45 % (IA MEA 304 equals 50 %).
Shops typically use carbide tools, cutting speeds of 100–150 m/min, and feeds of 0.12–0.18 mm/rev, delivering surface finishes around Ra 1.6 }m.
Welding
Fabricators weld CF3 using 309 Oole 312 filler alloys without preheat.
Post‑weld annealing at 1,050 °C for one hour restores corrosion resistance, reducing delta‑ferrite and dissolving weld‑zone carbides.
Hana & Hui pū
Although CF3’s work‑hardening rate lags that of carbon steel, it tolerates cold forming reductions up to 40 %.
To prevent springback, designers recommend bend radii of at least 3× material thickness.
9. Applications of CF3 Stainless Steel
Nā Vilves, Pumps, and Fittings in Water Treatment
In municipal and industrial water treatment facilities, CF3 stainless steel is a material of choice for:
- Valve bodies and bonnets
- Pump casings and impellers
- Pipe fittings and couplings
Its resistance to chloride-induced corrosion, even in brackish or mildly saline environments, ensures long service life with minimal maintenance.
The low carbon content reduces the risk of sensitization during welding, which is critical for pressure-retaining systems.
Petrochemical and Oil & Gas Components
The oil and gas industry frequently uses CF3 for castings that encounter corrosive fluids, including hydrocarbons, hydrogen sulfide, and CO₂-rich environments. Nā mea noi maʻamau:
- ʻO nā mea hoʻonani
- Manifolds and flowline components
- Metering valves and flanges
In up- and midstream systems, CF3 helps prevent stress-corrosion cracking (SCC) and pitting, which are accelerated by high chloride content or wet sour gas.
Food Processing and Pharmaceutical Equipment
Hygienic process systems require materials with excellent corrosion resistance, Hoʻopau maikaʻi loa, and compatibility with cleaning agents (CIP/SIP). CF3 fits these requirements, ke kūpono kūpono no:
- Sanitary valves and pipe fittings
- Mixing and metering equipment
- Dosing pumps and housings
Ia austenitic microstructure, which remains stable even after repeated sterilization cycles, helps meet FDA and 3-A Sanitary Standards in critical production environments.
Power Generation and Marine Hardware
- Steam and condensate system components
- Seawater pumps and valve parts
- Heat exchanger end covers
Its resistance to aqueous corrosion, mio popoele, and oxidation at elevated temperatures enhances component longevity in these aggressive settings.
In marine environments, CF3 performs reliably in both surface and submerged service.
Other Emerging Applications
- Hydrogen handling systems: Due to its non-magnetic and crack-resistant nature
- Semiconductor wet-processing tools: Where ultra-clean, non-reactive materials are needed
- Additive-manufactured cast components: For reduced weight and complex design integration
10. Hoʻohālikelike me nā mea'ē aʻe
Selecting the appropriate stainless steel grade for a given application requires a deep understanding of the performance trade-offs between available options.
CF3 stainless steel, as the low-carbon cast equivalent of 304L, is often compared to related alloys such as Cf3m, CF8, Cf8m, and wrought 304 meaʻole.
| Waiwai | Cf3 (304L hoʻolei) | Cf3m (316L hoʻolei) | CF8 (304 Kiola) | Cf8m (316 Kiola) | 304L Wrought |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mybrideum (Mo) Anter | ʻAʻole | ʻAe | ʻAʻole | ʻAe | ʻAʻole |
| NA MANAOLO DOLIAMERA | ≤ 0.03% (Ke kala kala) | ≤ 0.03% (Ke kala kala) | ≤ 0.08% | ≤ 0.08% | ≤ 0.03% (Ke kala kala) |
| Chordid resistisan | Loli | Kūpono | Loli | Kūpono | Loli |
| Ke kū'ē kū'ē (Wood) | ~ 18 | ~ 25-27 | ~20 | ~ 25-27 | ~ 18 |
| Ke kū'ē neiʻo Corrosionion | Maikaʻi loa | Kūpono | Loli | Kūpono | Maikaʻi loa |
| Wawahua | Kūpono | Kūpono | Loli | Loli | Kūpono |
| Kālā | $$ | $$$ | $$ | $$$ | $$ |
| Ikaika (Tersele) | ~ 485 MPA | ~500 MPa | ~510 MPa | ~520 MPa | ~520 MPa |
| Ewangantion | ~ 40% | ~45% | ~45% | ~45% | ~45% |
| NoMame | Excellent for cast parts | Excellent for cast parts | Good for cast parts | Good for cast parts | Kūpono (for rolled or formed parts) |
| Noi | Water systems, food-grade parts | Kekau, Marine, of 3Ikeha | General industrial parts | Marine, Kekau, of 3Ikeha | High-ductility, nā'āpana'āpana |
11. Hopena
Ma ka hōʻuluʻulu, CF3 stainless steel merges the proven corrosion resistance of 304 with the versatility of casting.
Its balanced chemistry, robust mechanical profile, and proven long‑term durability make CF3 an authoritative choice for medium‑duty corrosive environments.
Eia hou, with annual global production exceeding 50,000 tonnes and scrap rates under 6 %, CF3 delivers both economic and performance advantages.
Nānā i mua, integrating CF3 into hybrid casting–additive workflows and exploring surface treatments promises to extend its service envelope—ensuring CF3 remains a cornerstone alloy in industrial applications.
LangHe ʻO ke koho kūpono kūpono no kāu hana hana e pono ai inā makemakeʻoe i ka maikaʻi kiʻekiʻe nā kila kila.
FAQs on CF3 Stainless Steel
Is CF3 Stainless Steel suitable for high-temperature applications?
CF3 is generally suitable for moderate-temperature applications (up to about 800°F or 427°C).
For higher temperatures, or when ʻO ka pale oxidation at elevated temperatures is critical,
other grades like Cf8m Oole 316 kila kohu ʻole may be more appropriate due to their enhanced high-temperature properties.
Can CF3 be welded?
ʻAe, CF3 stainless steel is highly welible. Its low carbon content minimizes the risk of carbide formation during welding, reducing the chances of intergranular corrosion.
Akā naʻe,, it is always recommended to use appropriate welding techniques and post-weld heat treatments when working with this material in critical applications.
Is CF3 Suitable for Cryogenic Applications?
ʻAe, CF3 exhibits good toughness at low temperatures, making it suitable for use in cryogenic applications such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage and transportation.
Can CF3 Be Heat Treated?
CF3 is generally not heat treatable for strengthening purposes. Akā naʻe,, it can be annealed to relieve stresses and improve machinability.
How does CF3 Stainless Steel perform in seawater?
CF3 offers moderate resistance to seawater corrosion, but it is not as resistant as CF3M or CF8M, which have enhanced chloride resistance due to the presence of Mybridelu.
I ʻO nā wahi kai moana with high salinity, CF3 may experience some Pihaʻana ua holo ʻoi aʻe ka manawa, so CF3M or CF8M might be more suitable.
How should CF3 Stainless Steel be maintained?
Regular maintenance of CF3 stainless steel includes:
- ʻO ka hoʻomaʻemaʻe: Removing contaminants such as chlorine, SaulK, and chemicals that could cause localized corrosion.
- Nānā: Checking for any signs of pitting Oole Kāleʻa Crenice Corrosioni, nui loa Marine Oole chemical environments.
- Welding: Ensuring proper post-weld ʻO ka hana wela to avoid cracking or sensitization.
Can CF3 Stainless Steel be used in food contact applications?
ʻAe, CF3 is often used in nā lako hana meaʻai ma muli o kona Ke kū'ē neiʻo Corrosionion and ease of cleaning.
It complies with FDA and 3-A Sanitary Standards, hana ia i kahi koho kūpono no kūleʻa Nā Vilves, Pumps, a me nā'ōnaehana piping.
